Can hypertension be prevented?

Hypertension cannot always be prevented, but healthy habits and regular checks can reduce risk. Age, family history, kidney conditions, sleep-related breathing problems and some medicines can affect blood pressure even when a person lives healthily.

Blood pressure can rise gradually without noticeable symptoms, so a reading is the only way to identify it. Risk may be lowered by eating a varied diet with less salt, being physically active, avoiding tobacco, moderating alcohol, sleeping regularly and maintaining a weight that is healthy for you. Obesity, chronic kidney disease and obstructive sleep apnoea can make blood pressure harder to control and deserve medical attention.

Have blood pressure checked during routine care or when advised. If readings are high, repeat measurements under suitable conditions rather than relying on a single result. Build changes gradually: cook more meals at home, read salt information on packaged foods, take regular walks or other suitable activity, and keep follow-up appointments. If medication is prescribed, take it as directed and discuss side effects before making changes.

Get urgent medical help for very high blood pressure accompanied by chest pain, severe breathlessness, weakness on one side, new confusion, fainting, or sudden vision or speech changes. Seek routine review for repeated high readings, headaches with other symptoms, loud snoring with daytime sleepiness, or swelling and changes in urination.

How often should I check my blood pressure? Which lifestyle change would help me most? Could another condition or medicine be raising it? Do I need tests for kidney health or sleep apnoea?